Washington State head coach Mike Price was one of three finalists for the award, which Maryland's Ralph Friedgen was given during the ceremony Jan. 10 in Scottsdale, Ariz. Illinois' Ron Turner was the other nominee.

The FWAA Award is named after the legendary Robinson, who has won more games than any coach in college football history, all at Grambling State University. Price was the recipient of the honor in 1997 after leading the Cougars to the Rose Bowl.